view into library

This is our new library space. It will be included in the price of admission and everyone can access the space. It will contain old periodicals, books and patterns. We will also have a light table for tracing patterns and computers and internet access for students and industry people to conduct research.

this door will open often

Finally something exciting to blog about! Today we got our huge glass front door installed. It really adds a lot to the space. It finally seems real as things are coming together. This is a reocurring statement, but a true one. We get so excited by the changes and the fact that we are moving one step closer to being open. In the chaos of construction not only are we mentally planning the exhibition, but we are also receiving shipment after shipment of new merchandise for the gift boutique. A very exciting time for the costume museum of canada.

lack of glamour

The changes around here are not really the most exciting, nor the best for photography. Presently, we are in the midst of having our drywall taped and what we call "shmoeed". Surely that is the technical term for the plaster they use to fill in the cracks. Another very exciting change is the plumbing, not conducive to great photos, but they are jack-hammering laying new pipes in what will be the men's bathroom. One thing that has been very beneficial (other than the amazing metamorphosis of the building) is the relationships that have been created. There have been some very interesting trades people that have helped us realize this dream of a new Costume Museum. Without them we would still be sitting in a big warehouse. Instead the vision is being realized as the construction moves along.

more drywall images...

drywall

It is very exciting to see everything come together. The space really takes shape when the walls are drywalled. The gallery space is large and light filled, the second gallery too is quite large allowing for constant changing and displaying of our collection. We are still awaiting our permit to finish up the work, but hopefully it will be soon as we still aim to be open in June.

framed

The painting is almost completed and the colour makes the industrial ceiling vanish into the abyss. This is in contrast to the creamy white walls that surround the galleries and library. The white is warm and classic. Actually things are starting to move quickly now. The metal frames for the walls are almost all in place and then we are in a holding position as we await our permit from the city to continue. The new and improved Costume Museum is really going to be something special. The bare bones of this building were amazing to start off with, but now it is really all coming together.